A team of experts from Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo) on September 26 made presentations on the Potential of Smart Grid Systems in Ghana’s Electricity Generation and Transmission. 

The presentation by GRIDCo kick-started a seminar series being organized by The Energy Center (TEC), KNUST, to bring together experts from the University and key players in Ghana’s Electricity Sector to share their ideas on the potential and development of smart grid systems for Ghana’s electricity generation, transmission, distribution and consumption.

The GRIDCo team comprised of Mr Charles Darku (CEO), Mr Norbert Anku (Director of Engineering), Rev S.F Kwofie (Director, Northern Network Services) and Mrs Emily Otu-Asare (Sectional Head, Relations and Welfare). 

In his address, the CEO, Mr Charles Darku, indicated that GRIDCo is working with the secretariat of the West African Power Pool (WAPP) to complete a master plan for the next 20 years for electricity networks in West African sub-region which includes smart grids technology. He added that Ghana has one of the best grids in West Africa and that GRIDCo is prepared in making Ghana’s electricity grid strong and smart.   

Mr Norbert Anku in his presentation on “Ghana Electricity Generation and Transmission Master Plan” indicated that Ghana’s electricity generation is currently comprised of 55% hydro and 45% thermal. He mentioned that the Government of Ghana has introduced a Renewable Energy Bill which will ensure that 10% of Ghana’s power generation by 2020 comes from renewable energy sources like solar, wind and biomass. With electricity consumption in Ghana growing at an extremely fast rate at an average of 8%, he indicated that the Government of Ghana is considering other energy options like nuclear energy and power from coal. He added that discovery of oil and gas in Ghana has created potential for ‘’candidate power plants’’ to produce about 1700 MW of electricity.     

Rev S.F Kwofie followed with a presentation on “Insight into High Voltage Smart Grid Applications”. In his presentation, he indicated that High Voltage Smart Grid Technology has the potential to optimize grid use and improve grid efficiency and security. He added that introduction of smart grids in Ghana’s electricity supply chain will empower customers to manage their consumption and take advantage of pricing and other regulatory options. In his concluding remarks he emphasized that smart grids can be realised in Ghana if only it can be incorporated in the entire supply chain from electricity generation, transmission and distribution. 

To download a copy of the presentations click here.